Overview
A cracked tooth can be a delicate situation, but there are times when homemade dental cement can offer temporary relief during a dental emergency. This guide will explain how to use dental cement to patch up a chipped or broken tooth, and what to expect afterward.
What is Dental Cement?
Dental cement is a material used to fill gaps and protect teeth. In the mouth, it hardens and acts as a bond to hold together parts of the tooth that have a cracked or missing piece.
Benefits of Using Dental Cement for a Cracked Tooth
Using dental cement to fix a cracked tooth has several advantages:
- Temporary Relief: It provides instant coverage for a cracked tooth, reducing pain and sensitivity.
- Prevent Further Damage: By holding the broken piece in place, cement prevents further damage to the tooth.
- Ease of Application: Many people can apply dental cement successfully at home, without the need for professional dental intervention.
How to Apply Dental Cement for a Cracked Tooth
Follow these steps to apply dental cement to a cracked tooth:
- Gather Your Materials:
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Dental cement (available at any pharmacy)
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Water (with a pinch of salt)
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A small brush or cotton swab
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Tweezers or pliers (for removing any broken pieces of tooth)
- Clean the Area:
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Wash your hands thoroughly.
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Use a cotton swab to gently rub the area around the crack to clean away any debris.
- Remove any Pieces:
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Locate any broken pieces of the tooth. Be careful not to touch the root, only the crown (the part of the tooth you can see).
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Use tweezers to remove any broken pieces gently, being careful not to squeeze too hard.
- Prepare the Cement:
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In a small bowl, mix the dental cement according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Add a few drops of water to thin the cement if necessary.
- Apply the Cement:
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Use the bristled end of the brush to apply the cement to the broken area of the tooth.
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Spread the cement smoothly and evenly, making sure to cover the entire crack.
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Allow the cement to set for the time specified by the manufacturer.
- Remove Excess Cement:
- Once the cement has set, use the end of the brush or a cotton swab to remove any excess cement from the tooth surface.
- Replace any Missing Pieces:
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If the broken tooth was missing pieces, you may need to replace them with a small amount of composite resin or a dental veneer.
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Follow the instructions for applying composite树脂 or a dental veneer carefully.
- Seek Professional Attention:
- Even with temporary repairs, it’s important to see a dentist for a complete evaluation and permanent修复 of the tooth.
What to Expect After Applying Dental Cement
After applying dental cement to a cracked tooth, you can expect:
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Pain and Sensitivity: You may experience some temporary discomfort or sensitivity due to the new cement and the underlying cracked tooth.
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Protection: The cement should provide protection while you wait for your next dental appointment.
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Restoration: You’ll need to attend a dental appointment for a thorough evaluation and repairs, where a professional will determine if further action is needed.
##In a pinch, homemade dental cement can offer temporary relief for a cracked tooth. It's important to recognize that it's not a long-term fix and to schedule an appointment with a professional dentist as soon as possible for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment.